The Killing Stones: A Detective Jimmy Perez Novel [L0083]

2025 - HCDJ Excellent condition. The Killing Stones marks the eagerly awaited return of Ann Cleeves' beloved detectives from the Shetland series, and a gripping new investigation with a stunning new setting, from the New York Times bestselling author and creator of three iconic detectives beloved in TV and print: DI Jimmy Perez (the Shetland series), DI Vera Stanhope, and DI Matthew Venn (The Long Call). It's been several years since Detective Jimmy Perez left Shetland. He has settled into his new home in Orkney, the group of islands, off the northern coast of Scotland, with his partner Willow Reeve and their growing family. One stormy winter night, his oldest and closest friend, Archie Stout, goes missing. Ever the detective, Perez catches a boat to the island of Westray, where Archie worked as a farmer and lived with his wife and children. But when he arrives he finds a shocking scene: Archie's body, on an archaeological dig site and an ancient Westray story stone with precise spirals carved into it beside him, the clear murder weapon. The artifact, taken from a nearby museum, seems to suggest a premediated murder. But Perez is so close to the case that he struggles to maintain an objective distance from the potential suspects. He finds it difficult to question Archie's wife, whom he's known for years. Rumors swirl about the dead man's relationship with a young woman new to the island, an artist. With each new lead, the case becomes more twisted and Perez wonders if he will ever find out what happened in his friend's final days.

From recent Amazon/GoodReads reviews: "I loved how the novel wove together themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the heavy weight of secrets carried in small communities. Every twist landed perfectly, and even though I've read this series faithfully, this installment still managed to surprise me. It's tightly plotted, emotionally rich, and deeply atmospheric exactly what I hoped for. This is Ann Cleeves at her finest, and I cannot recommend this book highly enough."; "Once again Anne Cleeves has crafted a story that grips the reader from start to finish. "Whodunit" is only revealed in the last bit of the book and the reader is kept guessing in a most satisfying manner. Jimmy and Willow are portrayed as equal partners in crime-solving as well as their home life. Willow, too, is strong and smart and a wonderful in her own right."; "There is something so wonderful - and such a blessed relief - about reading a book by an author who knows how to write! From almost the first sentence, I was completely drawn in to the story, to the location, and to the characters. Some of the history of Westray Island, which is crucial to the story, is revealed in mostly bite-sized pieces as the narrative progresses without slowing the pace in any way. This is a fast-paced, well-written mystery by a master of the craft. Unique locations, well-drawn characters, and a surprising ending that hits very close to home. Highly recommend!"